If you’re looking for a nostalgic yet delightfully fresh side dish that brings smiles all around the table, this Ambrosia Salad Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine a creamy, sweet medley of tangy pineapple, juicy mandarin oranges, fluffy marshmallows, and the tropical sweetness of coconut, all wrapped up in smooth sour cream or yogurt. It’s easy to make, wonderfully refreshing, and perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or anytime you want a burst of sunshine on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ambrosia Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a clear purpose, combining to create a harmony of texture, color, and flavor that feels both comforting and vibrant.
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain or vanilla yogurt): Adds creaminess and a gentle tang that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows (fruit flavored or white): Brings a soft, chewy texture and a sweet touch that’s classic to ambrosia.
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes: Offers a tropical crunch and distinctive flavor that elevates the salad.
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (well drained): Provides juicy warmth and a bit of tartness to contrast the creamy base.
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (well drained): Bursts of citrusy brightness that lighten the salad and add vibrant color.
How to Make Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by tossing the sour cream, miniature marshmallows, coconut flakes, and pineapple tidbits into a large bowl. Stir these together gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite gets a little of each flavor and texture.
Step 2: Fold in the Mandarins
Next, gently fold in the mandarin oranges. This step helps prevent the delicate fruit from breaking apart and keeps the salad looking vibrant and fresh.
Step 3: Chill and Let the Flavors Marry
Refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to blend, the marshmallows to soften slightly, and the coconut to meld beautifully with the creamy base.
How to Serve Ambrosia Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, sprinkle a few additional toasted coconut flakes or a few fresh mint leaves on top right before serving. These little touches elevate the presentation and give a fresh aroma that invites people to dig in.
Side Dishes
Ambrosia salad shines alongside classic barbecue fare, crisp fried chicken, or even a sophisticated ham dinner. Its sweet freshness complements rich, savory dishes beautifully, making it a versatile star in any meal lineup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Ambrosia Salad Recipe in individual glass parfait cups for a charming look, or spoon it into hollowed-out citrus shells like oranges or grapefruits for an eye-catching presentation that’s bound to impress guests at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ambrosia Salad keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again to bring everything back together.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture of the fruits and marshmallows, freezing is not recommended. The salad may lose its creamy consistency and become watery once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. Keep it cold for the freshest taste and texture experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute the sour cream for something else?
Absolutely! Plain or vanilla yogurt works wonderfully, adding a slight tang and creaminess. Some people even mix sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra thickness and protein.
Is it necessary to drain the canned fruit?
Yes, draining the pineapple tidbits and mandarin oranges is important to avoid making the salad too watery. Excess juice can throw off the balance of flavors and texture.
Can I add nuts to this salad?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and a toasty note that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the salad. Just toss them in gently before chilling.
How long should I let the salad chill?
While it’s tempting to eat it right away, chilling for at least 4 hours or overnight gives the flavors time to meld and the coconut and marshmallows to soften just right.
Is Ambrosia Salad suitable for kids?
Yes! Kids often adore the sweet marshmallows and juicy fruit. It’s a fun, colorful way to get some fruit on their plates, especially during festive occasions.
Final Thoughts
This Ambrosia Salad Recipe holds a special place in the heart of many because of its perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and tangy elements. It’s a quick fix that delivers a lot of smiles and compliments. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and find it as irresistibly delicious as I do!
Print
Ambrosia Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ambrosia Salad is a classic, refreshing fruit salad featuring a creamy blend of sour cream, marshmallows, coconut flakes, pineapple tidbits, and mandarin oranges. This sweet and tangy dish is perfect as a light dessert or side and is best served chilled after allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain or vanilla yogurt)
- 1 cup miniature marshmallows (fruit flavored or white)
- 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Fruit
- 1 cup pineapple tidbits (well drained)
- 1 cup mandarin oranges (well drained)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, add sour cream, miniature marshmallows, sweetened coconut flakes, and well-drained pineapple tidbits. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are combined evenly.
- Fold in Mandarin Oranges: Gently fold in the well-drained mandarin oranges to the mixture to avoid breaking the fruit pieces, ensuring an even distribution throughout the salad.
- Chill the Salad: Transfer the salad to a covered container or leave in the bowl. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to let the flavors meld and the marshmallows soften slightly, then serve chilled.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with plain or vanilla yogurt.
- Ensure fruits are well-drained to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- This salad tastes best after chilling, so plan ahead for refrigeration time.
- Optional additions include chopped nuts or maraschino cherries for extra texture and flavor.
- Can be made a day prior to serving for convenience.
